Affiliation:
1. Sociology, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA (prior to his death on September 28, 2021)
Abstract
This essay presents theoretical constructs for characterizing the causal structure of social actions and developing a multi-level theory of action relating to accomplishment of goals via social organizations. Focal concepts include: action schemes, mobilization, internal and external fulfillments, power schemes, macroactions, effective actions, and purposeful actions. Additionally, an overview is provided of a methodological procedure for analyzing narratives in order to specify causal linkages among actions and thereby delineate action schemes. Some possibilities for future developments are noted.
Subject
General Social Sciences,Sociology and Political Science,Education,Cultural Studies,Social Psychology